Which term describes outward turning of the eyelid due to loss of elasticity?

• A. Entropion
• B. Ptosis
• C. Ectropion
• D. Blepharospasm

Answer: (C)

Outward turning of the eyelid due to loss of elasticity is ectropion. As the eyelid tissue and supporting structures lose tone with aging or after trauma, the eyelid margin sags away from the eyeball, causing the lid to evert. This exposure can lead to irritation, dryness, and tearing because the tear film doesn’t drain properly and the ocular surface is exposed.

Entropion is the opposite problem, where the eyelid turns inward toward the eyeball, causing lashes to rub against the cornea. Ptosis is the drooping of the eyelid itself, often from weak levator muscles, and blepharospasm is an involuntary, repetitive tightening of the eyelid muscles causing frequent blinking or eyelid closure.